Multi-utility energy control and facility automation system with dashboard having a plurality of interface gateways

ABSTRACT

A multi-utility energy and facility automation control system has control center computer(s) connected to various utility consuming systems and software that formats pertinent systems&#39; energy data, stores, retrieves, diagnoses and acts in response to changes and includes a multi-utility master meter device and a plurality of sensors for utilities and other facility operational data. The system includes at least one dashboard screen as a control screen, and a plurality of interconnected gateways for selection of separate networks for various utility-facility related subscreens. The sensors monitor consumption of a plurality of different utilities and other pertinent data and, using the presentation of the facility information as processed by the computer and presented on the dashboard, exercise c control of the facility to optimize performance and reduce the cost of purchased utilities and other facility operations.

REFERENCE TO RELATED CASES

This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. pending patent application Ser.No. 09/095,730, filed on Jun. 10, 1998, and entitled “Multi-UtilityEnergy Control System With Dashboard”, by the same inventor herein,which itself is a continuation-in-part of United States pending patentapplication Ser. No. 09/087,621, filed on May 29, 1998, entitledMulti-Utility Energy Control System, by the same inventor herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is directed to a multi-utility energy and facilityautomation control system with a dashboard screen, which includes acontrol center computer, specialized software, including the dashboardscreen and various unique subscreens, and a master meter. Uniquely,there are at least two interface gateways for communication withseparate networks. The master meter retrofits a plurality of variousmeters, senses consumption rates and stores, converts and presents datafor consumption information to the computer, and the specializedsoftware. The multi-utility master meter converts data to usablecomputer language with outputs to one or more computers for long-termstorage of individual utility consumption information, and for feedback,regulation and shutdowns utilizing the specialized software. Additionaldata on facility operation concerning the demand side and supply sidecenters of operation and the systems operation center are processed thecontrol center computer and presented as additional gateways on thedashboard. These centers provide control of operation of the facilityincluding the HVAC system, the internal environment, productivity andpersonnel, lighting, security, and emergency systems. The dashboardscreen and subscreens permit unique, easy access to information byfocusing on selected sites and utilities to provide quick analysis, realtime information, efficient, cost effective energy supply decisions, andother elements of facility operation.

2. Information Disclosure Statement

The following is exemplary prior art relating to utility consumptionsensing and control and facility control devices:

U.S. Pat. No. 5,621,654 describes methods and systems for economicallydispatching electrical power. The present invention utilizes real-timeheat rates for a plurality of power generating units, e.g., steamturbines, and corresponding emission data for each unit, to dispatchelectrical power at the lowest possible cost. The method of the presentinvention also compares the cost associated with generating power to thecost to purchase power from other electric utilities to achieve maximumcost savings associated with the dispatching of electrical power.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,537,339 describes how to operate a plurality ofutilities, the utilities are interconnected via a communication path.Each utility has a control device for controlling the utility and amemory for storing information factors which are used by thecorresponding control device. The information factors corresponding toall the utilities are investigated by an extraction device to determinewhich are common to the utilities and which are related. Where thecommon information factors are identified, they are passed by thecommunication path to the memories of all the utilities. Similarly, whenrelated information factors are found, a calculating device calculatescommon information which is also passed via the communication path tothe memories of al the utilities. In this way, the utilities may operatemore efficiently than when they are operated on a stand-alone basis. Theinvestigation of the information factors, and the calculating of commoninformation from related information factors may be distributed amongthe utilities or carried out by a common control device. The utilitiesmay be electric power supply systems, district heating and coolingsystems, sewage disposal systems, waste recovery systems, etc.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,528,123 describes the total line current in a power cordwhich is used to energize both a power factor corrected system andnon-power factor corrected AC loads. The power factor control loop ofthe power factor corrected system is then driven to correct the powerfactor of total line current in the power cord ideally to approachunity.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,517,188 describes a programmable identificationapparatus, and associated method, includes a transceiver and atransponder. The transponder is powered by the energy of a transceivertransmit signal generated by the transceiver and includes a programmablememory element. A coded sequence which uniquely identifies thetransponder is stored in the programmable memory element and, when thetransponder is powered, the transponder generates a transponder signalwhich includes the coded sequence stored in the programmable memoryelement, once modulated by circuitry of the transponder. When thetransceiver transmit signal generated by the transceiver circuitry is ofcertain signal characteristics, the coded sequence stored in theprogrammable element is erased, and a substitute coded sequence, whichalso forms a portion of the transceiver transmit signal, is stored inthe programmable memory element. Storage of the coded sequence in theprogrammable memory element is, hence, effectuated merely by applicationof a transceiver transmit signal of certain characteristics to thetransponder.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,512,831 describes a system for testing electrochemicalenergy conversion and storage devices includes means for sensing thecurrent from the storage device and varying the load across the storagedevice in response to the current sensed. The system is equallyadaptable to batteries and fuel cells. Means is also provided to sensesystem parameters from a plurality of locations within the system.Certain parameters are then stored in digital form for archive purposesand certain other parameters are used to develop control signals in ahost processor.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,129, describes an electronic device for multiplexingseveral loads to the terminals of a source of alternating electricalenergy. The source of alternating electrical energy is coupled byelectromagnetic flux to the loads by using primary excitation windingsconnect to the terminals of the source of alternating electrical energyand secondary windings respectively corresponding to the number ofloads. The secondary windings are at least partially coupled to theprimary winding and are each connected to the terminals of a load. Thecoupling is inhibited by auxiliary winding which are each totallycoupled with the secondary winding. The inhibition function iscontrolled in order to inhibit all the magnetic couplings except for oneand this particular one changes as a function of the respective load tobe coupled to the source of alternating electrical energy.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,483,672 describes a communication system, acommunication unit may conserve source energy when it is inactive in thefollowing manner. The control channel is partitioned into apredetermined number of windows and a system window which aretransmitted on the control channel in a round robin manner. When thecommunication unit registers with the communication system, it isassigned to a window group. The communication unit then monitors onlythe system window to determine whether the window group that its beenassigned to is also assigned to one of the predetermined number ofwindows. When the window that has been assigned to the window group isbeing transmitted on the control channel, the communication unitactivates to monitor that window. Once the window is no longer beingtransmitted, the communication unit deactivates until the system windowis being transmitted or the window assigned to the window group is beingtransmitted.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,265 describes a system for determining a costeffective and practical operation method for thermal source equipmentsincludes a fundamental plan data storage unit, a fundamental plangenerating unit for determining a fundamental operation plan of eachequipment while minimizing an operation cost by linear programming, anoperation knowledge storage unit for storing operation knowledge such asequipment performance characteristics and operation know-how, afundamental plan evaluating unit for evaluating the fundamental plan, amodifying rule storage unit for storing modifying rules used formodifying the evaluated fundamental plan, and a fundamental planmodifying unit for modifying the fundamental plan in accordance with themodifying rules.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,462,225 describes an apparatus and method forcontrolling energy supplied to a space conditioning load and foroverriding a load control operation in response to measuring certainspace temperatures within a closed environment. The load controlapparatus includes a control device connected to an electricaldistribution network and to a space conditioning load and a temperaturesensing device connected to the control device. The control deviceconducts a load shedding operation to control distribution of electricalenergy to the space conditioning load in response to command signalssupplied by a remote command center. The temperature sensing deviceoperates to override the load shedding operation by outputting a controloverride signal to the control device in response to sensing certainspace temperatures within the closed environment. If the temperaturecontrol device is connected to an air conditioning system, thetemperature sensing device causes the control device to terminate theload shedding operation prior to expiration of a selected time period inresponse to measuring a space temperature that exceeds a maximum spacetemperature limit. In contrast, if the temperature control device isconnected to a forced air heating system, the temperature sensing devicecauses the control device to terminate the load shedding operation whena measured space temperature drops below a minimum space temperaturelimit. The maximum space temperature limit is greater than the controltemperature setpoint of a thermostat that controls the spaceconditioning operations, whereas the minimum space temperature limit isless than the control temperature setpoint.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,459,459 describes an embodiment, is an algorithm forimplementation in a meter register and an reading device. In the oneembodiment, the present invention enables selecting a display table tobe read from the register, updating the billing read date and time inthe register, reversing the order in which load profile (LP) data istransmitted from the register to the reader, specifying the number of LPintervals to be read from the register, and specifying the number ofintervals to skip when reading from the register.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,436,513 describes an information handling system isdescribed having a power supply having a switching circuit that switchesa plurality of energy sources and between series and parallel couplings.Associated with the switching circuit is a voltage level detectingcircuit for monitoring the voltage level of the energy sources and. Aprocessor for controlling the information handling system responds tothe voltage level detecting circuit and in the event of a low voltagecondition, the processor activates the switching circuit to switch theenergy sources and from a series to a parallel coupling. Alternatively,processor responds to other inputs or conditions for actuating switchingcircuit.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,432,710 describes an energy supply system for supplying,in system interconnection, power received at a power receiving equipmentfrom a power plant and power generated by a fuel cell to a powerconsuming installation, and supplying heat generated by the fuel cell toa heat consuming installation. This system includes an operation amountcomputing device for computing an amount of operation of the fuel cellto minimize an equation y=aXL+bXM+cXN, in response to an energy demandof the power consuming installation and heat consuming installation. Acontrol device controls the fuel cell to satisfy the amount of operationcomputed. The system supplies energy in optimal conditions with respectto the cost borne by an energy consumer, consumption of primary energy,and release of environmental pollutants. Energy is effectively used fromthe standpoint of the energy consumer and a national point of view.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,424,958 describes the method allocates a demanded amountof power to a plurality of power output apparatus, each power apparatushaving characteristic curves associated therewith, and the total poweroutputted from the plurality of power apparatus results in a minimumcost for generating the power. Each boiler is allocated a quantity ofwaste fuel to be used in the generation of power, the quantity of wastefuel to be a predetermined total over a predetermined time period. Datais entered for each of the power apparatus into a controller. Optimalsolutions are generated for all valid possible output power demandsusing an optimization by parts technique within bounds of each powerapparatus. The solutions indicate the portion of power each powerapparatus is to supply to provide the total power each demanded atminimal cost. The solutions are stored in tables within a storage unitof the controller. Upon receipt of a demand for power, a search isperformed of the solution tables to obtain the amount of power eachpower apparatus is to supply and the amount of waste fuel to use.Control signals are then outputted to each power apparatus, the controlsignals being indicative of the amount of power to be supplied and thewaste fuel to utilize.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,420,741 describes an arrangement for obtaining flux rateinformation in a magnetic: circuit including passive means connectedacross a flux rate sensor for implementing control of said flux rate.The passive means being a tuned magnetic flux rate feedback sensing andcontrol arrangement wherein impedance is tuned and the energy losscharacteristic is adjustable. The selection of inductance andcapacitance values provides tuning and the selection of resistanceaffects the energy loss characteristics.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,404,136 describes an apparatus and method for monitoringthe consumption of utilities in business premises. The premises aredivided into notional zones, each including a utility load and a meterto record consumption within the zone. The zones are combined intonational groups. A central analysis computer is provided for receivingconsumption data from the zones of a group to calculate total utilityconsumption within the group, and to conduct further analysis on theconsumption data. The computer also supplies control data to the zonesfor controlling utility consumption. A single loss monitoring devicerecords the total losses which occur between a point and the utilityloads in the zones. The loss monitoring device transfers thisinformation to the computer. Alternatively, a separate loss monitoringapparatus is supplied for each column of zones for determining thelosses which occur in any single column of zones.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,216,623 describes a system for monitoring various,diverse energy characteristics of an energy consuming system. The systemincludes a data gathering device that accumulates data representing eachof the sensed energy characteristics in real time, the data representingmagnitude of the sensed energy characteristic as well as the time atwhich the magnitude is sensed. The data that is accumulated for each ofthe sensed energy characteristics is periodically transmitted to aremote analysis station. The remote analysis station performs a detailedanalysis of the sensed energy characteristics and generates reportscontaining summaries of the sensed data in the form of listings ofcompressed data as well as graphs such as histograms and graphscorrelating different energy characteristics of the energy consumingsystem.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,153,837 describes a digital and analog system forgenerating an energy log for instant recall and display. The system ispermanently programmed in read-only memory with the task of scanningsensor inputs, performing consumption calculations, updating thenon-volatile memory, responding to external commands, and monitoringperipheral performance. The stored information is available forreal-time query of individual sensor data or as a composite hard copyreport on a month-to-date or month-end basis. The apparatus acceptsinputs from both analog and digital sensors whose outputs produceinformation related to data such as current consumption, waterconsumption, or fuel consumption and provides an optional interface forthe control of these functions based on pre-programmed upper/lowerlimits. Based on the various inputs, data is stored in specified memorylocations and consumption rates and costs are computed based on sensorcalibration factors and energy cost factors stored in non-volatilememory at the time of calibration. The system is programmed to detectinvalid data and failed sensor inputs in addition to automaticallycalibrating.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,089,974 describes a building power management controllercomprises a plurality of modules connected by a two-wire network. Eachmodule comprises a data transceiver device, controlled by amicroprocessor to both transmit data to the other modules and to acentral unit via the two-wire network, and to receive information viathis two-wire network. The modules are supplied with power by thetwo-wire network. When the two modules transmit simultaneously, onetakes priority so as not to disturb the messages transmitted.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,924,404 describes an energy monitor for monitoringenergy consumed by each of a plurality of energy consuming devices whichis disclosed. The energy monitor comprises a processor, a memory, meansfor storing energy usage rate data in the memory, the energy usage ratedata representing a rate of energy consumed by each of the devices,means for determining when each of the devices is operating, meansresponsive to the storing means and the determining means forcalculating energy consumption numbers representing a quantity of energyconsumed by each device while each of the devices is operating and meansfor selectively displaying each of the energy consumption numbers.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,783,748 describes a method and apparatus which aredisclosed for sensing, sampling and performing calculations on aparameter of a physical quantity at a plurality of remote locationscomprising a plurality of remote sensing units and at least oneprocessing unit linked to said plurality of remote sensing units via atwo way communication link. Parameters of a physical quantity are sensedand sampled, calculations are performed and accumulated and transmitted,on demand, provided to the processing unit using a plurality offrequency bands one of which is identified as having valid data.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,749,992 describes a remote utility reading and controlsystem includes a central utility use data bank which communicates bycommunications link with a plurality of relay modules located at powersub-distribution transformers. Each relay module separately addressesand communicates by PLC with a number of site units in its locality. Thesite units may include on/off controls for buildings, light systems orsingle pieces of equipment, or may include utility meters or real powermeters. The PLC communication utilizes error checking and messageverifying to acquire valid status or measurement signals, which are thentransmitted to the central data bank. A CRC error code identifies faultymessages. After multiple interrogation, five responses are stored, and amessage is confirmed only when three of five responses are identical.Systems for electricity, water, and gas are described.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,661,914 describes an energy management controller iscoupled via a clock line pair, a “data out” line pair and a “data in”line pair, to a plurality or group of stations each having energy usingequipment. Each station is electrically coupled to each line pair atspaced points along the line pairs. Each station counts the number ofclock bits from the controller. After each group of a predeterminednumber of clock bits are received, each station provides an addresscount that is incremented by one after each group of clock bits arereceived. By setting each station to a different address count andenabling each station to transmit and receive data only during itsrespective address count period each station can be individuallyaccessed by the controller without specifically addressing each station.During the address count period for each station serial bits aretransmitted to and received from that station by the controller foractuation and control of the energy using equipment for that station.Use of the clock line enables each station control to synchronize andtherefore communicate with the controller even though the controller hasan aperiodic and unpredictable response time between receiving data fromand transmitting data to the station controls. Information gathered ateach station control is digitized at the station control fortransmission to the controller.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,163,218 describes an electronic control system which cancontrol the operation of a number of electrical devices such as lights,outlets, sensing apparatus, etc., all of which are energized from thesame power lines. Each of the electrical devices is respectivelyconnected to the power lines by an addressable switch unit. A centralcontrol unit is connected to the power line and generates a binary codedtime division multiplex signal, including an address portion and acommand portion. The encoded signal is transmitted directly onto thepower lines and is received by the addressed switch, which responds tothe command to control the state of the electrical device, and in turnsends a status response onto the power lines which is received at thecentral unit.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,153,936 describes a self-contained flexiblemulti-purpose and multi-function energy control system capable ofmonitoring energy consuming loads, providing signals indicative of thestate thereof and for selectively energizing and deenergizing such loadsin response to a variety of preselected conditions and time frames. Thesystem is also capable of cycling the loads and of varying the cyclingpattern in accordance with preestablished conditions.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,110,825 describes a power demand control in a plantfacility is improved by allowing the demand limit imposed as a target tobe met at the end of a control period to follow the actual demand in theplant. The demand limit is automatically optimized as actual demandfluctuates and it is set in accordance with past history.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,872,286 describes a control of the consumption of energyderived by an industrial user from a power supply system (electrical,gas or like commodity), and more particularly to a control system foradjusting an industrial load system to limit the demand of power whilerespecting the constraints of the load system.

Notwithstanding the prior art, the present invention is neither taughtnor rendered obvious thereby.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention involves multi-utility energy control and facilitycontrol system with at least one control center computer withspecialized software having a dashboard screen with a plurality ofutility type icons and at least two interface gateways forcommunications with separate networks. The dashboard screen also has aplurality of unique subscreens, and the system includes a multi-utilityreal time meter device. The meter device is used for monitoringconsumption of a plurality of different utility types with a singlemeter. This includes a main housing which contains a central processingunit, visual display means connected to the central processing unit,programming controls, a power source connection and a plurality of metersensor connections. The device also includes a plurality of utilitymeter sensors which are connected to the central processing unit of themain housing. The utility meter sensors may be retrofit sensors whichare attachable to existing utility meters for sensing real time ratesfrom the existing utility meters, and for transmitting the real timerates to the central processing unit. These meter sensors may beattachable to outside surfaces of electromechanical utility meters andmay measure magnetic flux caused by motion within the electromechanicalutility meters. Alternatively, the utility meter sensors may beintegrally connected with meters which are designed to replace existingmeters or to be installed in new applications. The sensors may beconnected to the central processing unit by direct low voltage wire, bysignal through AC power lines, by spread spectrum pulses or by otherarrangements. The meter device converts data to computer language andtransmits it to the computer central processing unit. In turn, thecomputer functions with appropriate software including the dashboardscreen and a number of interconnected subscreens to utilize the realtime consumption rate data to generate selected information, andincludes functional software for monitoring and responding to monitoreddata, including recognition of surges, power quality andcharacteristics, increase in usage versus historical data, etc., andinstitutes appropriate corrective actions by direct link to existingutility consuming control systems on site. These links communicate fromstandard networks, hard copper wire or through an internet exchange,e.g., Ethernet “LAN” based network, standard copper line internet, orradio frequency-based networks. The control computer with its customizedsoftware is connected to various utility consuming control systems suchas, backup generators powered by alternative fuels, HVAC systems,elevators, refrigeration systems, machinery, fuel consuming equipment,etc. and is connected to both diagnostic and control features of theseindividual systems. The program of the control computer formatspertinent systems energy data, stores it, retrieves it, diagnoses it andacts in response to changes identified and preprogrammed needs. Theprogram reduces consumption without shutting down vital equipment byidentifying and warning of individual utility consuming equipment andconsumption rate changes, by anticipating peak loads, and byanticipating demand spikes and sags, and then initiating a controlprotocol and algorithm to the appropriate control system toautomatically correct or eliminate inefficient energy consumption. Inaddition, the control computer may provide access via a controllednetwork, the internet or a standard direct line to alternate providersof various utilities such as electricity, steam, gas and otherconsumable fuels and utility materials. The system is formatted topurchase these resources in a real time environment.

Additional facility operational data is also included in the facilitycontrol system provided by sensors strategically placed throughout thefacility. These sensors measure information needed for general facilityoperation, including information on utility consumption discussed above,along with motion, pressure, temperature, light level, time, and airquality characteristics. Additional facility operational data such assales of productivity information and personnel ingress, egress, andlocation within the facility will be included. These sensor andoperational data are analyzed by the computer software, and presented onthe system dashboard, to enable control of elements of facilityoperation including HVAC system, indoor environmental conditions,personnel activity, lighting, and operation of emergency systems forevents such as fire and disruption of utility services. Gateways areprovided on the dashboard, for access to the systems demand side, supplyside, and operational centers for control of the facility by systemoperators. The computer software will also control certain automatedsystems in the facility including the HVAC system, lighting, securitysystems, and emergency systems and the operation of the automatedsystems will be monitored on the dashboard using the gateways provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention should be more fully understood when thespecification herein is taken in conjunction with the drawings appendedhereto wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of one embodiment of themulti-utility energy control system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a multi-utility real timemeter device of one embodiment of the present invention multi-utilityenergy control system; and,

FIG. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of the steps and functions of ameter device used in the present invention such as shown in FIG. 2; and,

FIG. 4 illustrates a dashboard screen used in the preferred embodimentsof the present invention software, and FIGS. 5 through 16 illustratesubscreens utilized therewith; FIGS. 17 through 21 illustrate screenswhich are used in some preferred embodiments of the present inventionsoftware to provide multi-site consolidation, which may be used inconjunction with the screens described above.

FIG. 22 shows a top level gateway on the dash board which leads tofurther gateway subscreens; the Demand Efficiency Network, FIG. 23 andthe Operational Efficiency Network, FIG. 24, used for facility control.

The Systems Operation gateways shown are the Energy Procurement Network,FIG. 25, the Occupancy Network, FIG. 26, the Indoor Air Quality Network,FIG. 27, and the HVAC Response Network, FIG. 28.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The multi-utility real time energy control and facility control systemof the present invention includes a multi-utility meter and plurality ofindividual meter sensors for real time sensing of a multitude of utilityconsumption rates, as well as a central control computer and appropriatesoftware. The word “utility”, as meant herein, should be construed tomean any energy or power related function which is purchased from asource separate from the user and is consumable to operate machines anddevices. Thus, included in this term are electric utilities, gasutilities, steam utilities, oil utilities, gasoline utilities, dieselutilities, propane utilities, oxygen utilities and other types of gasand liquid utilities which are flowable and consumption may be measuredby meters.

The present invention system includes a plurality of sensors for amultitude of utility meters and these sensors may be retrofitted throughexisting electromechanical meters or retrofitted to other types ofmeters such as electric or digital display meters or even float typemeters. Alternatively, the present invention control system sensors mayinvolve meter replacement with built-in sensors. In the case ofretrofitting to existing electromechanical meter, the present inventiondevice sensors may rely upon any known method of reading and sendingsignals from existing meters without exceeding the scope of the presentinvention. In some preferred embodiments these sensors rely uponmagnetic flux.

Other sensors may be retrofitted to electric meters which may or may notinclude digital display and these sensors may be wired directly topre-existing meters.

The present invention system utility meter sensors may beelectromechanical, current transformers, electrical, electronic pulsebased and may be single input or multiple input sensors. The presentinvention utility meter sensors, in some preferred embodiments includesensors which are current transformers which transmit about 0 to about 5milliamps to measure electricity characteristics.

The sensors used in the present invention may be connected directly tothe central processing unit of the multi-utility master meter housing ormay be connected indirectly. Where direct wiring may be too expensive ortoo difficult or in cases of large facilities, where the meters arelocated sufficiently separate from one another, indirect connection maybe achieved through the use of “existing in-house” AC lines (wiring)using existing technology which requires a plug-in diversion devicewhich sends signals along existing AC lines at different frequencies ormodulation and these may be received at the master meter through thepower source itself, for example. U.S. Pat. No. 4,783,748 entitled“Method and Apparatus for Remote Measurement” and assigned to QuadlogicControls Corporation describes such a system for long distancetransmission and would be used in the present invention to connect metersensors to the central processing unit of the master meter of thepresent invention device. U.S. Pat. No. 4,783,748 is incorporated byreference in its entirety.

The multi-utility master meter includes central processing unitcontained therein which is adapted to receive data from a plurality ofsensors and may have, for example, six, eight, twelve or even more suchas tens of receiving connections for as many meters as may be desired tobe read for a large facility containing a plurality of storage tankswith their own meters, the central processing unit could, for example,be programmed to sequence as many as 100 meters or even more. The mastermeter central processing unit includes a programming control panel whichwould be uniquely adapted to satisfy programming requirements.Typically, this could be a panel such as is currently used on securitycontrol panels, sophisticated timers, swimming pool pumps and the like.The central processing unit will permit the user to specify the numberof meters to be utilized and will then permit the user to program eachmeter in, for example, numerical sequence by selecting the type of meter(utility type) being sensed. The user will then select from a menu theappropriate rate base for each meter. These rate bases will be directlycorrelated to the individual utility meter itself, such as cubic feetper hour, kilowatts per hour, gallons per hour, liters per minute,kiloliters per minute, etc. Optionally, there may either be anabbreviation or utility menu which can be correlated to that particularprogrammed sensor or an alpha based keyboard may permit the user to typein or abbreviate whatever work or phrase the user may desire, e.g. thetype of utility the supplier of the utility, or even some encryptedabbreviation. The master meter central processing unit will then permitthe user to select a time basis for each meter being read in addition tothe instant real time readings, such as minute, hour, day, week, month,year or any arbitrary portion of any of these and/or readings based onyet indeterminate time periods such as from the time the meter startsmoving to the time the meter stops moving. The master meter centralprocessing unit will then permit the user to select read-outs of any ofthe foregoing for each of the utility meters being read. The user willrepeat the previous programming steps for each utility meter being reador some other logical sequence as may be desired. The master metercentral processing unit will interpret through consumption and demand ofliquids and gasses, electromechanical pulses and electricity throughcurrent transformers. The master unit software system will integrate avariety of inputs with selective outputs.

The master meter central processing unit will recognize the sequence,organize the real time data for each sequences and store it and willalso, while retaining the real time data, convert that date on the timebasis selected by the user. The master meter central processing unitwill also convert the data to an appropriate computer language foroutput to one or more computers. This central processing unit mayreplace data at a preprogrammed sequence, such as monthly or otherwiseor may retain data for a certain moving time frame and constantly dropoff the oldest data as new data is received. Alternatively, the mastermeter central processing unit may offer to the user, the opportunity toprogram how much data, that is for how long a period, data is retained.

The master meter central processing unit of the present invention systemis connected to at least one visual display unit such as a screen or anLCD located on the master meter and may automatically present data on acycled basis in sequence or simply present an entire sequence on callwhen the user inputs a command for this purpose or only selected data asthe user may desire. The master meter central processing unit may outputdata by conversion to a preprogrammed format such as DOS, Windows, Javaor any other operating system language for input to the control computerof the present invention system. The master CPU will also engage inleast cost routing of utility costs to search out in real time thegeneration costs of utility to allow the end user to purchase power costeffectively.

Thus, in the present invention system, the multi-utility master meterwill serve three distinct useful functions. First, it may provide asingle location read-out for all utility consumption for a particularsite; second, it will provide converted data as a user may desire; and,third, it will provide the user the opportunity to input informationinto one or more control computers for subsequent control of utilities.This third function will enable the user with the control computer(s) toidentify sudden surges, losses, equipment stoppage, etc. It will alsoenable the user to control and regulate specific consumption and evenoperate budgets, perform projections and seek competitive utilitycontracts.

The present invention software provides for a dashboard screen whichacts as a master control screen on the control central computer orcomputers, as well as a plurality of utility subscreens relatingthereto. The dashboard screen presents a plurality of utility type iconsfor selection of a utility therefrom and also provides at least twointerface gateways for selection of other utility related data forcommunication with or within separate networks. The utility type iconsof the dashboard screen may include icons for electric, oil, gas, waterand steam. It may also include other energy or utility types. Theinterface gateways may include one or more selection indicia, e.g.,icons which may have one or more choices selected from facility layout,fire and sprinklers, security, backup generation, power quality, demandcenter, HVAC, lighting and electrical. Both the utility type icons andthe interface gateways offer the user the opportunity to select one ofeither so as to provide more detail for that energy. When a selection ismade, subscreens appear which provide real time information such asdaily, weekly, monthly and yearly kilowatt consumption for theelectricity selection and other pertinent facility data. Additionalsubscreens will appear and offer the opportunity for on-line purchase ofutilities to the user.

When a demand center choice is made from the interface gateway of thedashboard screen, various selections are offered with much greaterdetail on a building by building, floor by floor and even room by roombasis, with appropriate subscreens, for the particular locationselected.

Additionally, the software may also provide screens and subscreens forconsolidated multi-site management. Thus, the user may start with ascreen which will display a map of an entire energy net, permitting theuser to select regions, states, districts and specific sites,sequentially by further detailed screens. Once the actual site is onscreen, the user may then utilize the main dashboard screen for thatsite.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of one embodiment of themulti-utility energy control system of the present invention. Variousutility meter with internal or retrofitted sensors 10 are sensed byconnection 12 to multi-utility master meter 14. This is described inmore detail in conjunction with the figures below. Master meter 14 isdriven by power source 16 and provides consumption rate data in acomputer readable format to one or more control computer(s) 20 such asvia connection 18. Control computer(s) 20 has customized software, thefunctions of which are illustrated in block 20 of FIG. 1. The controlcomputer(s) 20 is connected via various connections such as connection22, to individual utility consuming systems 24. In this manner, thefunctions set forth in block 20 may be performed.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a multi-utility real time meterdevice used in a multi-utility energy control system of the presentinvention, including a multi-utility master meter 1. Various utilitymeters are shown in FIG. 2 and are merely examples of possibleapplications for the present invention device. These include electricmeter 3, gas meter 5, steam meter 7, oil meter 9, diesel fuel meter 11,gasoline meter 13, oxygen meter 15 and symbolic meter 17 for one or moreother utility meters. Connected there to are sensors 23, 25, 27, 29, 31,33, 35 and 37, respectively. Each is connected to master meter 1 viaconnection 43, 45, 47, 49, 51, 53, 55 and 57, respectively. The sensorssuch as sensor 23 may be any of the types discussed above or asdescribed in conjunction with the figures below. Likewise, connection 43may be by any connection described in more detail in conjunction withthe figures below. Master meter 1 is powered by power source 21 and thismay be conventionally alternating current power so that master meter 1may have a standard plug for power via conventional outlets. Other powerarrangements may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the presentinvention.

As indicated in FIG. 2, master meter 1 includes a central processingunit 10 which is receptive to real time sensing, has programmability andcapabilities for data storage, conversions, data presentation andcomputer language outputs. It is programmable and master meter 1includes a visual display presentation 41 as well as programmingcontrols 59. Optional, but preferred power backup 20 is also included.

Master meter 1 via connection 19 presents recognizable outputs tocomputer 39 for subsequent storage, retrieval and other computerfunctions including control utility consumption, feedback, regulation,shutdowns, economic tracking and reporting functions.

Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown a block diagram illustratingspecific steps involved in the programming and functioning of oneembodiment of a present invention system master meter such as mastermeter 1 of FIG. 2. In block 61, the user programs central processingunit 75 to specify the number of meters to be read. In block 63, theuser programs central processing unit 75 for utility type, in sequence,for each meter. In block 65, the user confirms or selects each utilityrate base for each meter, e.g. gallons per hour. In block 67, the userprograms central processing unit 75 for time basis (single or pluraloutputs for each meter—e.g. hours, days, months or random use cycles).In optional block 69, the user programs central processing unit 75 forselected readouts, e.g. hourly, daily or uses readouts of all previouslyselected time bases. Block 77 is the power source which powers centralprocessing unit 75 (and the sensors in many embodiments). Block 79 isthe output to one or more computers from central processing unit 75.

Block 71 indicates sensor type selection. These sensors may generally beof any sensor type that will extract rates from meters and send suchdata to central processing unit 75. Although not limited to theseselections, block 75 includes: retrofit to existing electromechanicalmeters via magnetic flux sensing; retrofit to existing digital displaymeters via electronic signal pickup; and, meter replacement with builtin sensors with electronic signal or other signal. Block 73 shows sensorconnection choices including direct wire, indirect wire via AC lines,airwave signals and any other possible connection methods which may beavailable, e.g. lightwave.

Central processing unit block 75 indicates that the central processingunit provides sequences, organizes, stores input data from sensors;converts data as necessary X, Y, Z parameters, X=time based, Y=datareplacement time frame, and Z=language; displays data directly; and,stores/transmits to computer both real time data and converted andunconverted stored data.

The control computer customized software described above will functionto perform the desired operations as set forth in the figures and in theabove Detailed Description. However, an expanded version which cannot beexcluded from the present invention would include more detailedfeedback, analysis and activity relating to electrically consumingsystems. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/907,205, entitled“Commercial Customer Software Module for Utility Company ManagementComputer Systems” designated as Attorney Docket No. PWB-110A, filed onAug. 6, 1997 and incorporated herein in its entirety by reference,describes commercial customer software which may be used in conjunctionwith the present invention control computer(s). For example, thediscussions with respect to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 of that patent applicationdescribe sufficient detailed software activity for incorporation intothe present invention control computer(s). The only difference betweenthis cited reference and the present invention with respect to thecomputer software, is that the controls in the cited reference arelocated at the power utility company and not at the actual facility onsite, and the cited reference does not rely upon the sensors andmulti-utility master meter included in the present invention.

Additionally, the present invention system has as one of its primaryobjectives the ability to provide the user with choices in purchasingpower and other utilities to obtain the most cost effective purchases.In some embodiments, the present invention may be linked to multipleproviders to give the user direct instant contracting capabilities,while other systems of the present invention may include an intermediateutility broker and even the ability to bid for utility services.

FIG. 4 illustrates a dashboard screen 101 which may operate as a maincontrol screen. It includes a plurality of utility icons including icons103, 105, 107, 109 and 111 for electric, oil, gas, water and steam,respectively. There are also three separate multi-system interfaceseparate gateways for this site, shown as Power Network gateway 113,HVAC Network gateway 115, and Facilities Network gateway 117. Gateway113 includes a real time consumption chart which illustrates variousutility information for the facility being reviewed. Gateway 115includes HVAC information, response capabilities and an alarm. Gateway117 is a Facilities Network gateway which includes utility relatedselections such as fire and safety 121, HVAC efficiency 119, operationalefficiency 123 and occupancy 125. Each of these gateways open to moredetailed screens illustrated below, and these screens are integrablemodules which will be discussed in more detail in conjunction with theFigures, below.

If the electric icon 103 is selected in FIG. 4, an on-line electricitypurchasing subprogram represented by oasis shown in FIG. 5, screen 151will appear as a window. This will generate screen 161 shown in FIG. 6which will provide electricity procurement information from alternativeproviders. Likewise, if the oil icon is selected, procurementinformation sill be shown on a separate screen which will be provided.Similarly, gas, water and steam alternative procurement information willbe provided as shown on screens 181, 191 and 201 in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10,respectively, when the corresponding icons are selected.

Referring again to FIG. 4, if the Facilities Network Occupancy indicia125 is selected from gateway 117, screen 211 shown in FIG. 7 will appearand by either mouse clicking or icon selections, further and furtherclose up details may be obtained. Thus, FIGS. 8, 9, 10 and 11 illustratethis with screen 221 of FIG. 8 offering a floor plan selector, screen231 of FIG. 9 offering a hall selector from a particular floor, screen241 of FIG. 10 showing a particular floor layout and screen 251 of FIG.11 showing an actual room layout with utility indicators.

Referring again to FIG. 4, if operational efficiency selection 123 ismade, choices will be presented so that the user may select specificoperational systems for more detailed review. This screen offers custommodules for the review and control of steam demand, heat demand,electrical demand and the like. Thus, by selecting appropriate icons,indicia, screens, and modules, a user may move from system to system orfrom unit to unit within an operating system. Thus, screen 271 of FIG.12 illustrates electric adaptive demand center HVAC load information,while FIG. 13 illustrates screen 291, which is a detailed expansion ofselection 119 from FIG. 4. Likewise, FIG. 14 shows screen 311, whichshows real time readings for HVAC loads.

If Indoor Air Quality is selected from a Facilities Network gateway 117(FIG. 4), through the fire and safety indicia 121, location choices willbe offered. Once a location is selected, screen 321 of FIG. 15 willappear followed by FIG. 16's screen 331, which provides critical airquality information, which may be especially important in chemicalfacilities and hospitals.

FIGS. 17 through 21 show screens 361, 371, 381, 391 and 401 which showfurther and further focused detail of multi location site selections, byproviding national, regional, state, district, site and buildingselections to a user. Once a final site screen is obtained, specificsite connection may be achieved and the use of the FIG. 4 controldashboard may be tied in for energy data review and collection andprovider selection, as described in conjunction with FIGS. 4 through 16above. These location maps are used to consolidate a multi-site user andprovide load aggregation and billing information for these facilities.

Further enhancing the facility control features of the system discussedabove, additional elements of facility operation are to be included inthe control system to allow optimization of the performance of thefacility and reduce the cost of operations. A centralized facilityefficiency system will be provided that will process facilityinformation, categorize and retrieve management data, provideinformation for operator control of the facility, and execute automationtasks. Additional facility operational sensors will be strategicallyplaced throughout the facility. These sensors measure the basicinformation needed for general facility operation including, in additionto those needed for measurement of utility usage in the facility,motion, pressure, temperature, light level, time, air qualitycharacteristics, and external environmental conditions. Also, otherfacility operational data such as sales or productivity information andpersonnel ingress, egress, and location within the facility will beincluded. These additional sensor and operational data will be analyzedby the computer software, and presented on the system dashboard, toenable control various elements of facility operation including the HVACsystems, indoor environmental conditions, personnel activity such assales or manufacturing, lighting, and operation of emergency systems forevents such as fire and disruption of utility services. Gateways are tobe provided on the dashboard by the software in the central computer,grouping the operational information into a Demand Efficiency Network,an Operational Efficiency Network, and networks for System Operation.These gateways will enable facility operators to effectively controloperation of the facility.

The computer software will also control certain automated systems in thefacility including the HVAC system, lighting, security systems, andemergency systems, and the operation of the automated systems will bemonitored on the dashboard using the gateways provided.

FIG. 22 presents a top level gateway to the facility control systemshowing access to the Demand Efficiency Network, 501, the SupplyEfficiency Network, 502, and the elements of the Systems Operationnetwork, 503. The top level gateway also provides access to certainPhysical Sensor data at various locations in the facility as shown at504.

Details of the Demand Efficiency Network are shown on FIG. 23.Information such as the sequence of mechanical equipment operation, 511,mechanical equipment efficiency, short term electrical meter profiles,512, the outside temperature and humidity, and the interior occupancyand conditions are obtained. Also, the occupancy, and the instantaneousproductivity of the facility, 513, will be recorded.

Using these data, facility operation can be controlled through theOperational Efficiency Network shown in FIG. 24. Facility systems areinstantaneously controlled, 521 and 522, adjusting parameter set pointsand executing automatic system response, 523, throughout the facility,524. For example, if the facility has moved into a critical utilitydemand period, the computer will execute set back conditions and shutdown equipment components that will not effect basic operations of thefacility.

The Energy Procurement Network gateway of System Operation is shown inFIG. 25. The system computer will interrogate the entire network oflocal master meters and computers and consolidate all electricinformation into the energy procurement data base, including theexisting load factor at the location, 531. The computer will processdemand, usage, and usage patterns for each facility location, separatethe information into geographical locations, and determine accesscharges for the electricity being used based on aggregate load profiles,532. Then the computer will download information from an electricutility provider network, such as OASIS, 533, and determine the lowestcost to procure the energy needed by the facility, and execute theenergy procurement.

The Occupancy Network and the Personnel Paging Network gateway is shownin FIG. 26. The computer will obtain instant productivity and salesinformation from the corporate computer, 541. The computer will thendetermine the occupancy of the facility, 542, retrieve the presentemployee schedule, and automatically page certain employees to eitherleave or come to work, 543, as needed to maximize profitability.

The Indoor Air Quality Network, FIG. 27, will constantly monitor theinternal environment in the facility for various conditions andpollutants, 551. The computer will automatically act to adjustenvironmental conditions which are out of tolerance, and both activatethe HVAC ventilation system and sound an alarm to the employees should aharmful pollutant enter the environment, 552.

The HVAC Response Network is shown in FIG. 28. This network willconstantly monitor the environmental conditions and automatically adjustthe HVAC system to maintain conditions within tolerance for internaltemperature and humidity. In addition, using suitable HVAC equipmentperformance and operating sensors, maintain data on the systemsperformance and provide a warning or alarm if the systems operationshould go out of acceptable limits. Repair activity would activated,562, if needed, and the network would maintain records of theoccurrences of repair, and the timeliness and affectivity of the systemrepairs, 563.

The system described above and be extended to include multiplefacilities, even on a nation wide scale. A central computer anddashboard system would be used to interconnect all facilities at allsites involved. The system software would be modified to present dataand provide control options as needed for the entire system, regional orother subsystem breakdowns of facilities, and for individual facilities.

Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the presentinvention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is thereforeunderstood that within the scope of the appended claims, the inventionmay be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

1-42. (canceled)
 43. A lighting control system comprising: a lighting control device to control at least one lighting device in a commercial facility; and a processing device in communication with the lighting control device and a computer external to the commercial facility, wherein the processing device sends a first control signal to the lighting control device based on a second control signal received from the external computer.
 44. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the processing device and the lighting control device communicate through wire.
 45. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the processing device and the lighting control device communicate wirelessly.
 46. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the external computer communicates with the processing device through internet.
 47. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the lighting control device is coupled to the lighting device to directly control the lighting device.
 48. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the lighting control device is coupled to a circuit breaker, which is coupled to the lighting device through a wire, and the lighting control device controls the circuit breaker to control the lighting device.
 49. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the commercial facility has a plurality of lighting control devices, wherein the processing device identifies one lighting control device from the plurality of lighting control devices and generates the first control signal identifiable by the identified lighting control device.
 50. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the first control signal includes a code which when processed by the lighting control device causes the lighting device to dim, turn off or turn on the lighting device.
 51. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the processing device includes a data processing part, a communication part, and a memory.
 52. The lighting control system of claim 51, wherein the processing device receives lighting control data from the external computer and stores the lighting control data in the memory.
 53. The lighting control system of claim 52, wherein the processing device sends the first control signal based on the stored lighting control data.
 54. The lighting control system of claim 52, wherein the external computer sends the second control signal that adjusts the lighting control data stored in the processing device.
 55. The lighting control system of claim 52, wherein the lighting control data is used by the processing device to send a sequence of first control signals during a predetermined time interval.
 56. The lighting control system of claim 52, wherein the lighting control data includes information that is used by the processing device to send a sequence of first control signals, wherein each first control signal includes lighting level control based on different times in a predetermined interval.
 57. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the external computer receives energy price in real time.
 58. The lighting control system of claim 57, wherein the external computer sends the second control signal to adjust energy consumption of the lighting device based on the on real time energy price.
 59. The lighting control system of claim 43 wherein the external computer sends the second control signal to adjust energy consumption of the lighting device based on grid emergencies.
 60. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the external computer sends the second control signal to adjust energy consumption of the lighting device based on air pollution data.
 61. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein the external computer sends the second control signal that alters content and/or operation of the processing device.
 62. A lighting control system comprising: a lighting control device configured to control at least one lighting device in a commercial facility; and a processing device configured to communicate with the lighting control device and a computer external to the commercial facility, wherein the processing device is further configured to send a first control signal to the lighting control device based on a second control signal received from the external computer. 